Trevor Story is one of two star free agent shortstops remaining on the market. To some extent, he’s in a second tier of his own at this point. Carlos Correa is the clear prize of the class. He’s two years younger than Story with more upside on both sides of the ball, and there’ll be a fairly significant gap in each player’s respective contract reflecting that.
Yet Story should be in high demand in his own right. Only one team can land Correa, and many may not want to entertain an asking price that could approach or top the $325MM Corey Seager landed from the Rangers. Story’s the only other shortstop still on the market who’s likely to offer above-average production for the next few seasons.
Let’s take a look at some potential suitors and try to peg Story’s likeliest landing spot. A few clubs are such longshots they only warrant cursory mention. The Orioles, Pirates and D-Backs aren’t in the kind of competitive window that suggests they’d make this kind of splash. The A’s and Reds are far likelier to cut payroll than make a nine-figure investment. The Rays, Brewers and Royals don’t typically spend at this level and have an abundance of infielders anyways. The Rangers have already signed both Seager and Marcus Semien in the middle infield and have Josh Jung approaching at third base.
Which teams make more sense?
Clubs With Infield Opportunity And Known Interest
- Mariners — Jon Heyman of the MLB Network indicated prior to the lockout that the Mariners had put an offer on the table to Story. Seattle’s known to be pursuing infielders, and while they could roll with a group of Ty France, Adam Frazier, J.P. Crawford and Abraham Toro, adding Story would be a nice boost on both sides of the ball. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto has been adamant about keeping Crawford at shortstop, but if Story’s amenable, he could slide to second base and push Frazier and/or Toro into roving utility roles.
- Astros — The Astros are facing Correa’s potential departure and have Aledmys Díaz as their top in-house option at shortstop. Top prospect Jeremy Peña isn’t far off big league readiness, but Houston’s a win-now club without many vacancies on the roster. Aside from perhaps left-handed relief, shortstop is the only real question mark. Signing Story would reaffirm their position as one of the best teams in the sport, and Heyman reported they’ve shown some interest.
- Red Sox — Heyman also reported the Red Sox had expressed interest with Story’s camp. Xander Bogaerts is a star, but he can opt out of his current contract after next season. Boston also has some uncertainty at second base, and either of Story or Bogaerts could slide to the other side of the diamond. As with Houston, this is a big-market team that wasn’t far from a championship last year.
Solid Speculative Fits
- Angels — The Angels in-house shortstop options (Tyler Wade, Luis Rengifo, Jack Mayfield and Andrew Velazquez) aren’t enough for a hopeful contender. Los Angeles already has a few long-term investments for position players on the books, and they may still want to add another arm or two on the pitching staff. Locking in some certainty in the middle infield is a necessity, though, and Story fits the bill.
- Blue Jays — The Jays have Bo Bichette at shortstop, but they’re facing some questions at both second and third base. They signed Semien to move off shortstop last winter; might they consider a similar tack with Story? There seems to be some payroll flexibility with which to work, as Toronto made a run at Seager before he landed in Texas.
- Cardinals — The Cardinals could try to upgrade over the Paul DeJong/Edmundo Sosa pairing at shortstop. That’s particularly true if DeJong ends up traded. To this point in the winter, though, there hasn’t been much indication that’s a priority for St. Louis. The Cardinals seem more interested in upgrading the bullpen and perhaps adding to the DH mix.
- Cubs — The Cubs have been tied to Correa for much of the winter. They’re reportedly loath to commit to a decade-long deal, and Story could make sense as a fallback. The Cubs have taken a step back recently, and perhaps they view Correa as a unique player worth spending for. Would they pivot to Story or be content to ride things out with their internal options?
- Dodgers — The Dodgers lost Seager and haven’t done much to replace him this winter. The Trea Turner acquisition at last summer’s deadline could be the necessary shortstop replacement, with Chris Taylor/Gavin Lux/Max Muncy logging action at second base. Los Angeles has been tied to Correa, though, suggesting they’re open to a star shortstop.
- Phillies — The Phillies have question marks in both positions on the right side of the infield. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has already told incumbent Didi Gregorius he’s not assured of keeping the shortstop job. Story’s a great fit on paper, particularly given the team’s desire to upgrade defensively. The question: will they want to commit huge resources at shortstop with question marks at third base, the bullpen and two outfield spots?
- Twins — The Twins are trying to immediately rebound from a disastrous 2021 season. They essentially don’t have a starting shortstop. Jorge Polanco had a very good season offensively after moving from shortstop to second base. He could theoretically move back to short, with Luis Arráez stepping in at second. Yet that’s a suboptimal defensive group. Adding a shortstop makes sense, but Minnesota might prefer to allocate their resources to a rotation that has at least two vacancies.
- White Sox — The White Sox have a question mark at second base. That was the case at the trade deadline too, and Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported at the time they considered a deal for Story. Nothing materialized, but it stands to reason they’d have some interest in a run at him now that he’s a free agent. The potential hold-up, as with a few other teams, is finances. Chicago’s already at a projected franchise record in terms of player spending.
- Yankees — The Yankees entered the offseason with such a glaring need at shortstop that general manager Brian Cashman frankly stated they “have to address” the position. So far, they haven’t. Correa and Story are their last hopes at making an impact add via free agency, but various reports throughout the winter suggested they might look for lower-cost stopgap options with top prospects Oswald Peraza and Anthony Volpe not far off big league readiness. Would the Yankees pivot to sign a higher-impact player like Story once the new CBA is in place and they have a clearer picture of the luxury tax landscape?
Longer Shots
- Giants — The Giants have a ton of payroll space, but reports have suggested they’d prefer to spread their resources around rather than commit to a star free agent. Brandon Crawford is already locked in at shortstop. San Francisco could turn to Story as an upgrade over Tommy La Stella at second base, but the outfield and pitching staff seem like cleaner fits if they do reverse course and make a big splash.
- Guardians — The Guardians have never gone beyond a $60MM guarantee on a single player. There’s essentially no long-term commitments on the books and Cleveland could add at shortstop and push Amed Rosario into the outfield, but it’s unlikely unless Story’s market unexpectedly craters.
- Marlins — The Marlins are trying to add to the offense, but Story’s probably out of their price range. With Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Miguel Rojas in the middle infield, the outfield seems like a bigger priority anyways.
- Nationals — The Nationals have long-term payroll space and an obvious need at shortstop. They could sign Story with an eye towards locking in some certainty for 2023 and beyond, but that kind of splash doesn’t seem to be in the cards this offseason.
- Rockies — Story’s former club has expressed interest in bringing him back. There’s no indication they’ve kept in contact through the offseason, though. Story has expressed some frustration with the organization’s management in the past, and it’d be a real surprise if he ends up returning.
- Tigers — The Tigers have been active this winter and could still try to upgrade at second base. After signing Javier Báez to a six-year deal, though, they don’t look likely to be a serious player for Story.
Can Never Rule Them Out, But There Are Probably Other Priorities
- Braves — The Braves have been quiet thus far, seemingly waiting out a decision from Freddie Freeman. They’ve already got Ozzie Albies, Dansby Swanson and Austin Riley around the infield, so there’s no real need. Yet they’ve been tied to Correa, at least suggesting some openness to adding a shortstop (perhaps then trading Swanson for pitching help).
- Mets — The Mets went hog-wild after installing their new front office. They’re seemingly in line to shatter whatever CBT thresholds are put in place, and with that kind of financial backing from owner Steve Cohen, it’s impossible to rule them out on anyone entirely. Shortstop’s already accounted for with Francisco Lindor, though, and Jeff McNeil, Robinson Canó, J.D. Davis and newcomer Eduardo Escobar are already on hand as second/third base options. Starting pitching looks to be the bigger priority at this point, particularly since signing Story — who rejected a qualifying offer — would require the forfeiture of the #14 overall pick in next year’s draft.
- Padres — President of baseball operations A.J. Preller has boldly struck even in the absence of an obvious team need before. But with Fernando Tatís Jr., Manny Machado and Jake Cronenworth, there’s already a great infield in place.
We’ll let the MLBTR readership weigh in. Where is Story likely to end up after the lockout?
(poll link for app users)
LordD99
Well, there’s the Yankees. And then there’s the Yankees. And, oh yeah, the Yankees.
There might be other teams, too.
Joe says...
This would be the typical Cashman signing: someone who hasn’t really been linked to the Yankees and whom they have publicly downplayed.
jopeness
Story has been mentioned often the past 2 deadlines.
I’d prefer not signing him to a bloated contract, Correa as well. I’m not sold on Story’s splits and Correa, I don’t think could handle playing in New York. I think Cole will probably be seeked out to provide input on Correa as he will be with the Yankees longer than anyone else on paper right now.
jjd002
What would make you think Correa couldn’t handle New York?
Cosmo2
That weird thing were New York fans often think that their town is so special that only certain players can “handle it”? (It’s pure nonsense). I’m guessing that’s it.
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
@jjd002- what makes you think the Yankees want to sign Correa?
jopeness
New York media and fans are intense, intrusive, brutal and down right idiots sometimes. from interviews I’ve seen of Carlos and the handling of questions, I do not think he would be a good fit. There are several players over the years that are prime examples of this.
Cosmo2
The so called examples of players not handling NY are merely players who had a down part of their careers there. Players have good years and bad years but if you have bad years in NY, local fans incorrectly assume that it’s BECAUSE of NY. Just another example of a failure to account for randomness in statistics. NY isn’t that special and players don’t have their talent crumble just because the local media is intense. It’s a myth based on faulty assumptions and a misunderstanding of how to read variations in stats, that’s all.
Cosmo2
Although I do see how Correa could stir up a bit of craziness with the local media, I don’t buy that it will affect his performance.
JoeBrady
jopeness9 hours ago
New York media and fans are intense, intrusive, brutal and down right idiots sometimes.
==============================
I’m a Bronx-born RS fan, and heartily disagree. First, I think even casual Yankee fans know a lot about baseball. Secondly, Yankee fans treat prospects and rookies, even poor rookies, like family members. Just last year, Velasquez came in to replace Torres at SS for 5-6 weeks.
Even though he did nothing else but keep the boat afloat, Yankee fans love the kids. They know he isn’t a long-term solution, but they also appreciate his contributions.
TroyD
You have never been in NY and must have never heard of Sonny Gray.
Seriously, there is more pressure in the NY market. Not saying other markets do not have pressure as well, but media and fans in NY are relentless. There is a mental toughness that is required that is likely greater than in Oakland or Cincinnati.
Personally, I think most players to get to MLB have a thick enough skin to handle it. But I do not think it is a stretch to say all do.
FWIW, I think Correa would handle it fine. He would take some abuse on day 1 and God help him if he slumps for the 1st couple of weeks., but I doubt he withers under pressure.
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
@jopeness- of course if you can’t handle any pressure, you are not needed here in New York. Good riddance. Bye bye.
jjd002
I understand the mental toughness that comes from New York, which is why I’m wondering why someone thinks Correa would have an issue with it. He’s made for that market.
Chief Two Hands
Yep. Story is overrated at this point in his career. Would be a classic Yankees move.
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
Trevor Story might sign for 4 years at $22-24 million annually. The Yankees could play him at shortstop for 2 years and then move him to centerfield later on when Peraza and Volpe are ready. I see Peraza playing shortstop and Volpe either playing 3rd base or 2nd base eventually.
Samuel
@ Yankee-4-Lifer 75;
You’re a true Yankees fan!
gocincy
Someone will offer him more than 4 years, so there’s no way he signs that contract with the Yankees. I happen to think that he’s overrated, but that’s not a unanimous opinion, so it’s safe to bet that some team will offer him much longer term deal than 4 years. Maybe he gets 6 years?
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
@gocincy- and if that’s the case. I wish Trevor Story my absolute best with his future new team. Maybe 5 years with a club option for a 6th year. Nothing more. Best friends with DJ LeMahieu for all that’s worth. So Yankees could definitely be in play.
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
@Samuel- I certainly hope so! Oh the evidence!
Pete'sView
I know prospects often don’t pan out, but Peraza is just too good to be discounted. I’m a Giants fan, but I think the Yankees have more pressing needs that they need to address with their money than Story, who I think will go to the Phillies, Blue Jays or Angels, though I see him as a great fit in SF.
marinersblue96
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
Yeah just move Story to CF a position he has never played in his minor or major league career. If you would of said 2nd, 3rd, or even a corner OF position that would of been a minor stretch but Story will never play CF for any team.
Yankee-4-Lifer 75
@marinersblue96- are you kidding me? These players would stand on their head and play any position for the money. Wouldn’t you? To say Story wouldn’t play centerfield in a few years is crazy. He’ll play anywhere the team tells him to play.
Pete'sView
Yankee-4-Lifer 75 – No, are you watching the same game as the rest of us? There is NO WAY Story ever plays CF. He is a lifelong SS, and certainly is capable of playing anywhere else in the infield.
CF is the most difficult outfield position, requiring quick, accurate reads and speed. Most outfielders can’t play CF, and now you expect Story to man CF. Oh boy!
TroyD
SS is generally considered harder than CF. Going to CF is a step down from SS.
It certainly is not unheard of. Story has good speed. There is a very good chance he would excel as a CF.
Pete'sView
A pipe dream.
Ducky Buckin Fent
Yeah, I’ve been wondering about that, @99.
& like @Joe points out, it would fall in with how Cash oftentimes operates. He got kind of transparent with Cole & – in a much different fashion – Gray recently, but he has a history of out of nowhere acquisitions.
Just did it this past summer.
I like Story’s blend of power, speed, durability, & defense. He doesn’t solve all of our problems. But: no single player does.
There’s some kind of free agent fund available. Yanks did offer $25 mil to Verlander. I think Story gets a lower AAV but helps us a lot more in ’22 than JV would’ve.
Baseball 1600
I stand by my prediction that whoever gets Story will be getting a steal this off-season compared to the other contracts.
LordD99
I agree. I do have some concern about his arm. He developed some throwing issues that seem injury related. Not sure if it’s transitory or chronic. Seem to being in 2020.
VonPurpleHayes
I could see his asking price being elevated by what Lindor got and what Correra will get. I’m not seeing he will get close to what either got, but his goal may be somewhere slightly below that. So I don’t forsee a steal at all.
padam
If Story is open to 2B, he could market himself as a modern day Craig Biggio type. As for teams, I see the Angels (because it’s what they do), Yankees (because), and Rockies (if he’s willing to accept less) being the top three vying for his service. Other teams make sense as well, but have needs in other areas or need to keep the cap down as they have others who they may want to keep long term (Astros, Dodgers). Mariners in my opinion are the dark horse, but only if they can move him to 2B, though I believe they’re more interested in Bryant.
thickiedon
Biggio went from catcher to second base
padam
Catcher to center to 2B.
❤️ MuteButton
Actually, Catcher, then second base, then centerfield, then left field, then second base again
Pete'sView
Story will NOT return to Colorado, I think that’s been made pretty clear by Story himself.
Samuel
Trevor Story is a nice player.
While he’d be an improvement to a lot of teams, he’s not going to turn any around. Getting stuck with even a 4 year contract will very likely cause problems for the team he signs with within a few years.
Right now the man looks like an upper level MLB SS. Within the next 2 years there will be at least half a dozen young SS’s that come up and play better than him for far less money (as well as a number currently up that will get better). On a one year contract the man is attractive. Giving him 4-6 years because he looks attractive in 2022 is what gets franchises in trouble more times than not.
PhanaticDuck26
the “hamstring the franchise” narrative is so played out. any franchise can afford 20 mil a year over a five year contract, which is what I think he gets. teams are generally pretty good about adding a big contract around the same time as other ones are coming off the books. they might have an overlap where they’re paying a bit more than usual, but hey, those are generally some competitive years so it’s worth it. the same “fans” who cry “he’s not worth the money” are the same ones who later cry “why don’t we have any good players.” funny how that works.
Cosmo2
It’s really not played out. You’re talking as if that 20 million is the only money involved. Once you add it to all the other contracts, yes it really hurts a teams ability to spend MORE. And there are plenty of ways to have great players without spending stupidly. The played out narrative is the one that says you have to overpay on outrageous contracts in order to have good players. Funny how it does actually work. The idea that you have to hand out big contracts in order to have good players is just wrong.
Dustyslambchops23
So teams just should just not add free agents and not bother improving because it’s not a ‘good’ deal?
Then what? Wait around for your prospects to develop only to lose other impact players and be in the same spot.
Chester Copperpot
Look at the world series teams since 2000. Sure there’s some frugal teams making a showing every now and then (TB once, KC twice), but the overwhelming majority of participants spend a lot of money.
What’s weird is an entire generation has been sold on analytics and moneyball that they can’t even see the obvious anymore.
Dustyslambchops23
I do agree that free agency is not a way to build a team because of the way FA is designed, you typically don’t find bargains unless there’s risk.
But free agency is a great way to speed up timelines and improve an existing club. I’m not sure how anyone can think that a competitive team with a positional need would benefit from not signing him, if the price is within reason.
Cosmo2
Um… are you suggesting that it’s a good plan to embark upon “bad” deals? Yes, you should only do good deals unless you feel you are one player away from being a powerhouse, which is rare. Bad deals are, by definition, bad. Most teams regret signing mega deals. Most teams chase the big contract and how often does it work out? Very few teams, Dodgers, Yankees can afford bad deals but most teams do end up getting hamstrung, so to speak. Spend smart, not wild.
Cosmo2
I always laugh when someone declares their idea “obvious” despite the fact that said idea basically only works maybe five percent of the time. Look around the league, many teams try to spend their way to contention, very few succeed. Teams like NY and the Dodgers can afford bad contracts but most teams end up mired in mediocrity while desperately trying to unload those contracts that are part of your so called obvious plan.
Cosmo2
@Dusty: I do agree with your last sentence though. If it’s part of a smart plan, and a reasonable deal, then of course, go for it.
Dustyslambchops23
I’m struggling to agree with you because we are talking about Trevor Story. While FA has been wild to date, I think we can all agree he’s probably not going to get more than 125 mil over 5 years. Any team CAN absorb that contract, obviously some won’t bother but that’s a different story all together
Any of the teams listed above that expect to compete would be better off with Story in the lineup. If GMs managed solely based on a free agent deal being ‘good’ value and the player being as valuable in the last year of the deal, no player would ever sign a contract. It’s an overly cautious, unrealistic take.
Teams need a solid cheap base, but once you have that unless you’re tampa or Oakland, free agency is a good way to add to the core of the team ( and also prevent other teams from improving)
Samuel
@ Dustyslambchops23;
Whew……
There’s nothing wrong with giving a few players long-term FA contracts for a team to use as cornerstone players. There’s everything wrong with giving out too many knowing the law of averages is that all will not pan out, and they’ll cut a teams flexibility.
In today’s MLB it’s all about getting to the playoffs multiple years – i.e. being stainable contenders. The better teams today limit their long-term contracts, and keep money and prospects in reserve each year to make in-season trades.
As for Story – as I wrote, I think he’s a nice player. But he’s not a cornerstone. Even fans here that like him see him as a future utility player. While it’s good to have one – teams can have their choice of one every year for a reasonable amount of money. The Mets just got Eduardo Escobar for $10m a year. In 3 years Story may well be Escobar….and you’ll be paying him $25m.
Cosmo2
@Dusty: I’m speaking in pure generalizations here. I agree with your specific point about Story, if that’s the contract he’s willing to take. I still might not do it, but that’s reasonable.
Dustyslambchops23
In using your example of better teams limiting their long term contracts.
Who is Mookie Betts going to be as a 37-39 year old making 35 mil a year ?
As an example, Sure the Yankees could avoid Story, but they run the risk of a) the Red Sox or Jays getting him and with the teams so close, that pushes the yanks out of the playoff picture.
And b) their SS prospects don’t develop or don’t develop in time and they have to go out and find a trade or free agent short stop after rolling out a weakened lineup for a few miserable years.
I understand your premise of not trying to buy wins, it’s not sustainable and the Padres and I’m sure the Rangers and Mets next year will prove the same, but there are a lot of teams on this list that were built sustainably that should look to add a free agent like story to improve, despite the very real scenario that he is Eduardo Escobar in 3 years.
Mrsuntan
The Rays made it TWICE,cleveland, marlins ect ect. Never let facts get in the way of a stupid comment
Samuel
@ raltongo;
Of course any team can afford $20m on a 5 years contract.
But the issue is – how many of them can they afford before they turn into the Yankees and have to play a 2B @SS because they got a 2B from a last place team thjat agreed to pay his salary just to have his roster sport freed up?
This board if full of absolutes. People like me have to write long post to give a perspective.
dave frost nhlpa
Eventually,Story is moved off SS. It is a fit somewhat for NYY,but I’d rather have Simmons or Didi (if he becomes available) at SS for two years and work in Peraza. Volpe is a 3B candidate in waiting when DJ’s contract is up. I’d like to see Gio and Garcia to the Mets for Dom Smith.
xxbooradley
No Cubs dumpster diving comments?
maximumvelocity
I wouldn’t sign Story for more than a season. His 76 OPS+ away from home should give any team pause in signing him long term.
That said, his is the very type of buy low player the WS love, so would not be shocked if ends up there.
I think that would be a terrible signing, but it would be very Whote Sox-ish.
seamaholic 2
All Rockies hitters have low numbers away from Coors. And then they do just fine after leaving the Rockies. You’re like 10 years worth of advanced metrics behind the times with that take, and luckily, actualy baseball teams know it.
Cosmo2
At some point fans are gonna realize that those home/road splits don’t follow Colorado players to their new team. Right?
LordD99
Cosmo, I think many do, but there are others who some still ignore it. It’s almost like they want to put a spotlight on their knowledge gap!
Arenado is the recent example. He’s a career 121 OPS+ hitter. What did he hit in 2021? 121 OPS+. The numbers look different compared to Colorado, but the production is similar.
Samuel
@ LordD99;
You’re playing games with stats.
Yes, Arenado hit his average OPS+ in 2021 playing in St. Louis instead of Denver. However…..
The average you cited included the odd 2020 season where his OPS+ dropped to 86. In fact, other than the 2020 season Arenado’s OPS+ in 2021 was the worst he had since 2014.
–
People here said DJ LeMahieu hit better with the Yankees than at Coors…so there. While true, LeMahieu had 2 very good years for the Yankees in 2019-20, but in 2021 began regressing to the mean.
No one in their right mind thinks a player will hit better in another park than Coors all things being equal…..including the players. But over the course of a career players have their ups and downs. Which is why any contract – even for one year – is a risk…….and it’s why teams trade in season for a short-term guy that’s been doing well……and even then we have Kimbrel in 2021……
VonPurpleHayes
Sometimes people forget that the majority of players have better numbers at home.
Ducky Buckin Fent
@99
Matt Holiday did just fine away from Coors too.
Stevil
Spot on.
And when looking at splits, it helps to look stadium and divisional numbers and consider sample sizes.
It’s weird to see so many people down on him. He’s a plus defender at a premium position and with power. That should play pretty much anywhere.
Poster formerly known as . . .
“No one in their right mind thinks a player will hit better in another park than Coors all things being equal…..including the players.”
The highest wRC+ Dexter Fowler had in his five full seasons in Colorado was 120. He went to Houston and his wRC+ increased to 126. In his second season in Chicago it went up to 129. In his first year in St. Louis it was 122.
Ian Desmond disintegrated in Colorado.
1984wasntamanual
I don’t think a lot of teams are looking at a player’s career numbers…Arenado’s wRC+ dropped by about 20 points from his 2017-2019 (I think his 77 wRC+ in the shortened season is an outlier) numbers, from ~130 to 113.
Samuel
@ maximumvelocity;
His attractiveness and salary demands are based on him being a quality MLB SS. Yet half the rumored teams being talked about either want to play him at 2B or 3B in 2022, then move him there in a few years.
The 2B position has changed quite a bit due to shifts. The man has less ground to cover and plays in short RF so he doesn’t need the quick reactions, but does need a good, accurate arm. 3B is a reaction position in which the defender cannot watch the ball leave the Pitchers hand – they just crouch down, stare at the plate, and have to react quickly to a batted (or topped) ball coming in their area. Many SS’ s that get moved there don’t do well.
You note Storys’ 76 OPS+ outside of Coors. Teams can live with less offense from a quality defensive SS. But they expect more out of a 2B or 3B. People are talking about giving Story an AAV of $20m-plus for 4-6 years. During that timeframe most teams will be able to find guys to play 2B and 3B that can produce at his level for a lot less money.
Story will get a multi-year contract and wind up being overpaid most of the years – which will limit the flexibility of the team signing him.
RunDMC
Would be interesting to see a team offer him a large 1-year deal, and see if he bites in a year where there is significantly less SS depth and he doesn’t have a QO attached to him because he’s already been offered it this year. The 1 year can allow him to address confidence about SS long-term (or moving off the position), offense away from high-alt, etc. What if TOR made a 2021 Semien-like offer, that ultimately allowed him to post career-high totals and get a $175M deal from TEX – 2 years older than Story.
Ultimately, I think he gets a deal from HOU.
thickiedon
Kinda what I’m thinking too: large 1yr deal ($24-28MM) signing w Astros. Allows prospects to develop and for Story to stay at SS and prove himself outside of Coors. No such thing as a bad 1yr deal, right?
stymeedone
Don’t see many teams, especially one that was given draft pick penalties, giving up a high pick to sign a player to a one year contract. I expect Houston to be interested, but for more than one year.
gbs42
A long-term contract for Story should be something around Baez’s 6/$140M, so if a team wants him for one year, the salary most likely would be well over $30M.
Barkerboy
Astros. Remember Tulo? Yankees won’t do it. Trevor is a Texas boy, so….
dsett75
I’m thinking Seattle will get him if they’re serious about contending.
TrillionaireTeamOperator
I’m a Yankees fan, so speaking for what I’d like to see the Yankees do:
I’d take Story on a 1 year/$26M deal or 2 years/$46M deal, but nothing beyond that, not even for a super low AAV like 3 years/$50M.
I think we could bring up Volpe right now and be adequate with him. I think he’d do alright. I think he’d start out as a Brett Gardner type with a really high WAR that mostly came from defense and blossom into peak Gardner type with average to above average offensive production to go along with the stellar defense, but peak earlier and sustain it for much longer.
I get the sense Volpe is ready for the Show. I think we might try to keep him down another year and change to manipulate service time, so I’d be fine bringing in a guy like Story for 1-2 years, but beyond that I think SS is Volpe’s position for the next 10-15 years, hopefully, so no matter what we do, it should be a deal that will expire or we can easily flip or change the player’s position by Spring Training of 2024 at the latest.
YankeesBleacherCreature
Dude… your evaluations are so off. A 28 y.o. Story at 3/$50M would be an absolute bargain for any team. Volpe hasn’t played past high-A ball so can we see him perform at AA or maybe AAA first? Calm down.
Chester Copperpot
You would pay $46M for 2 years, but you draw the line at $4M for the 3rd year? Nonsense.
ASapsFables
I could envision the White Sox signing Trevor Story to play 2B, especially if he settled for a high AAV short term deal like a pillow contract or one with numerous opt-outs early on.
Even if the White Sox don’t sign Story I can see him having an impact with them this offseason. For instance, if Story signed with the Yankees as most fans here predict it would open up a greater potential for a trade involving Chicago and New York for a 2B like Gleyber Torres or DJ LeMahieu. The same goes with the Phillies signing Story which could make either Jean Segura or Didi Gregorius available to the White Sox as their 2B in 2022. The Phillies also have a need for a closer which could then involve Craig Kimbrel heading to Philadelphia.
Samuel
@ AaronSapoznik;
The White Sox are currently toughing record highs on the players the now have under contract.
You think they offer Story a bloated one year contract for 2022?
Maybe they will. Heaven knows that Kimball trade was one of the worst in years. Teams spiral downhill not because they make a bad move, but when they follow that up with making more bad moves to make up for the bad one.
wrigley
That makes some sense. I’d love to see Gallo and Torres traded to White Sox for Kimbrel and other pieces. I believe Torres still has a bright future at 2B. Gallo is a great fit for one season on the South side. I don’t like Gregorius for Sox, but Kimbrel for Segura sounds fair.
stymeedone
Phillies currently are hurting for IF with SS and 3B up in the air, and you think they are going to trade their 2B? Good luck with that! Yankees have a solid bullpen, but you think they would trade for overpaid Kimbrel by trading the lefty bat they have been trying to add for years? Good luck with that!
Ronk325
The Astros and Mariners are the only teams I see in the running. The Mariners might have a preference for Bryant so that would take them out. That scenario would leave the Astros who have already shown a willingness to spend big on Correa on a shorter term deal
Stevil
Actually, Seattle probably prefers Story over Bryant and local journalists have suggested the same.
Story could presumably move around the infield, and he would offer insurance in the event that JP gets injured or struggles. That kind of positional flexibility would be more valuable for Seattle than a defensively-declining Bryant who probably wouldn’t be the regular third baseman in 2024 when Marte is expected to debut and settle in, and shouldn’t be needed in a corner with Kelenic and Rodriguez in regular roles (plus the possibility of Lewis and Haniger remaining in the OF mix).
Cost will be a factor as well, obviously. I doubt Seattle goes more than 6 years for Story and even that might be a stretch. They might be more inclined to trade for a stopgap infielder.
Ronk325
I see where you’re coming from. The Mariners going with Story also takes away the guy is who is probably the top target of the rival Astros since they’d be unlikely to pursue Bryant
Lefty_Orioles_Fan
A team not mentioned, but would be a great fit
The Orioles!!!
He would rake there and be like A JJ Hardy catalyst like he was when he was acquired in 2010.
Story would be great in Baltimore.
bobtillman
They might have to outbid the Pirates.
Lefty_Orioles_Fan
Well, anything is possible
Padres2019ha
If Padres moved Hosmer I could see them signing story if they got value instead of castellanos. Move Cro 1B and story to 2nd. That would be one helluva an infield. If Tatis continues to be injury prone then Story could play ss. W Abrams possibly an early season call up, could put Abrams in CF or RF.
gocincy
It’s a nice story, but how do the Padres move Hosmer and his contract? They’d have to package a bunch of prospect talent with that contract to get a team to take it on.
CNichols
I think the Padres are getting to the point where moving Hosmer has to be a big priority for them. Even if that means sending Campusano or Hassel and another prospect and significant money out with him, because he’s just so unproductive now it’s weighing the team down. Crone at 1B and Kim at 2B until Abrams is ready would be a much better alignment.
I really don’t like the Story fit for them even if they can pull that off because they’ve got a high payroll and still need another OF and pitching. Story is redundant for them when they have other needs.
Deleted Userr
@CNichols Why would the Padres play their best defensive shortstop (and it isn’t close) at 2nd base????
CNichols
@The Observer Because Tatis. SD has an MVP caliber SS already.
He is projected for like 7+ WAR next year and has said publicly he wants to continue to play SS, not OF. You can’t play Kim over Tatis, you have to prioritize Tatis.
I agree Kim is their best defensive SS by a good margin, but currently Kim isn’t even starting because he’s blocked at 2B by Crone and at SS by Tatis, so the most logical way to just get him in the lineup is to dump Hosmer and move Crone to 1B.
Deleted_User
Story doesn’t want to play a position that isn’t SS. Padres don’t need more 2nd basemen anyway.
And Hosmer isn’t going anywhere unless they attach Crone, Grisham, Abrams or Bobby Barrels.
Lefty_Orioles_Fan
If the Padres pay for Hosmer, the Orioles should pick him up
Cosmo2
Why? Wouldn’t it be better to play a young guy there, see what they can do, rather than a washed up vet who offers nothing but name recognition? There are plenty of better options than Hosmer, even if he comes for free.
CNichols
The thing with Hosmer for a rebuilding team is he’s probably also going to come with a top 100 prospect. It’s not even about getting Hosmer for cheap, it’s about getting Robert Hassel without giving up any talent. They can pretty much just buy a good prospect by taking on Hosmer.
prov356
If the Angels can get a good deal, I’d be happy with Story. We have flexibility with Fletcher at SS so Story could play 2B if they wanted to swap them. But if it’s Story or more pitching, I’d pick the pitching if it is meaningful and not just some one year bounce back gambles.
to4
I wouldn’t be any to block Biggio, But the Jays could always sign both of Story and Bryant and use the DH in a rotation mode.
Both of Biggio and Bryant can play RF when Teoscar DH’s
1.Bryant 3B, Bichette SS, Biggio 2B, Vladimir Jr. 1B, Teoscar RF, Story DH
2.Story 3B, Bichette SS, Biggio 2B, Teoscar RF, Bryant 1B, Vladimir Jr. DH.
3.Bryant 3B, Bichette SS, Story 2B, Vladimir Jr. 1B, Teoscar RF, Biggio DH
The ways could go on although, I would go mainly with options 1 and 2 !
Story’s contract should be in the lower 100’s checking in at maybe $125.$130 while Bryant should be between $150-$175.
I’ll say the Jays can afford both as Ryu and Grichuk’s contract will becoming off the books soon, and still have money left to extend Bichette and Vlad Jr. for life! Like a 10-13 year deals!
Dustyslambchops23
Be reasonable dude.
The jays aren’t going to turn in to a 300mm payroll team. Signing both Bryant and Story would be a complete mismanagement of assets and would probably mean not being able to afford Bo and Vlad extensions.
Ryu and Grichuk make 31 mil combined, this would be 45-50 mil per year added. No way they do it
It’s just a bad idea.
bigfatandugly
@ dusty – right?
Shoguneye
You want to sign all that talent and are concerned about Biggio?
BirdieMan
Noneof this matters until they get a deal done.
Padres2019ha
good thing this isn’t a site specifically for rumors and/or speculation
Deleted_User
Hey dude! Have the Padres traded Wil Myers for Noah Syndergaard yet? Or traded for JT Realmuto and “just extended” him yet?
tankadelphia
I think for the Phillies comment, it should say “left side of the infield”. The right side is set with segura and hoskins.
dasit
the yankees thought torres was the long-term solution at shortstop and are still struggling to form a plan B. the world is falling apart, so i’d rather GFIN with story then wait for prospects that will likely break my heart
Pete'sView
I dunno, Peraza looks like the real deal.
Cubneck
With the Cubs reported interest in Correa but on a 7 year instead of 10 year deal I can see them missing out and giving Story 4 to 6 years. I still think Correa at 10 years is better value, but Story would fit Jeds fear of long deals and allow more money to be spent on other needs. While Correa with his age and offensive profile should help the team contend in the next few years as well as be a player Jed can build his next young core around. He will still be an in his prime established star player to lead the next young core and set the culture.
Pete'sView
Too early for the Cubs to plunk down that kind of money for a guy who may not be as useful in 3 years. Cubs aren’t contending for awhile.
Dustyslambchops23
Clearly their FO doesn’t feel the same way
Spare Tire Dixon
I picked Anaheim if only because they would sign a SS instead of adding SP
Jarred Kelenic's Beer Can
I think Story is a great fit with the Mariners. Would fill 2B or 3B, and then they can have Frazier and Toro rove around wherever needed. What signing him (or Correa, but I highly doubt that will happen) does for Seattle is give them another SS option if Crawford gets injured or something. They have Dylan Moore on the roster as the only other player capable of backing up SS and while he does have decent power, defense, and speed, he just can’t hit the ball with any consistency. Classic all-or-nothing kind of player, and he is useless against RHPs. Signing Story essentially allows the Mariners to move on from Moore one way or another.
AlienBob
I agree. If the price is right Story is a great fit for the M’s. It allows the infielders to all take a day off without a huge drop off in offense or defensive production. Frazier has played a little outfield in the past and Toro probably could do it, too. If the rumors of the M’s giving him an offer before the lockout are true then I think the chances he becomes a Mariner go way up. After the lockout the players are going to be very anxious to sign and move on. He should come out of the lockout with his mind made up. .
Chester Copperpot
I don’t think Dylan Moore is going anywhere, regardless of who is brought in before next season. He is a very valuable utility guy. No, he’s not a .300 hitter, but he can play just about any position competently, hit you a homer or two, and steal you a late inning base if needed.
The M:s gave over 800 PAs last year to guys below Dylan Moore on the depth chart. (Guys like Bauers, Trammell, Long Jr, Marmolejos, Haggerty, Walton, Mayfield, etc) There’s plenty to go around even after adding another starting IF.
AHH-Rox
Was Baez promised that he’d be the shortstop? It would make sense for Detroit to put Story at SS since he is better defensively and bump Baez to 2B where he has experience. If the Tigers want to spend on another bat.
stymeedone
The Tigers future moves will be for pitching. The team has its prospects ready to play and for a much lower cost. Paredes, Castro, Clemens, Torkelson, and Kreidler will combine with Miggy, Schoop, Baez and Candelario. Tigers will look to add another Vet Starter and a bullpen arm or two with experience.
Darthyen
Story is overrated just like Tulo was and The Blue Jays had better stay away from this overrated and overpriced player. Under no circumstances is Story a fit for the Blue Jays and they need to stay away from him. Let another team waste their money.
lsujedi
God I hate the name “Guardians”. Nothing against the decision to change the name. But “Guardians” is just stupid.
williemaysfield
Spiders would have been cool
bigfatandugly
as a jays fan i totally endorse signing story to a 1 or 2 year. AAV to anchor 2nd if he’s up for the move. bichette had a wild arm at the start of the season but his defence was vg over the course of the season and his arm leveled out. i think he can be a top 5 defender at the position. he seems to have a really good chemistry w vladdy.
i think sorting out who’s going to play 2nd is a priority. we can’t rely on biggio who can’t stay healthy, shows sporadic power and who’s OBP is tied to his walk rate. maybe i’m wrong on my assessment of him but i see him as more of a depth piece than as a every day player at second.
i’m open to leaving espinal at 3rd who’s shown to be a plus defender who can hit his way on base. his knock is his power but the jays issue isn’t power having led the league in HRs per game despite playing 3/4 of the season away from home.
Shoguneye
I think you’re pretty much spot on re: Biggio. A lot of walks and a lot of bats given away looking for those walks. Mediocre defense with an average arm at 2nd. Arm degrades the further away he plays from there.
Story would be a nice short term pickup but he’ll try to maximize his return. I’d rather put those $s to work on the mound.
Astro fan 111
After losing their first and second round draft picks the last two years, I can’t see the Astros signing anyone with a QO attached, especially a player with the offensive and defensive question marks associated with Story.
Dustyslambchops23
They’ll get one back with Correa, so I don’t think that will stop them if they think Story is a good fit
richt
Don’t really think the last three teams in this article merit discussion. Really don’t think the Rockies or any of the longer shot teams do either.
Pete'sView
richt – Giants might surprise you.
Old York
I’d say Colorado Rockies. Seems like a decent fit.
❤️ MuteButton
He’s trending the wrong direction at wrong time. If you look at history and similar players you’d have to say his best years are already done.
Cosmo2
You’re correct but when has that ever stopped teams from offering huge multi year commitments? The above applies to most big name free agents.
brucenewton
Cashman can’t win on just 210. It’s never been near enough. Hal needs to open it up above 300 for any hope.
lumber and lighting
Angels have 50 million to spend to bring the budget where it was last yr.Story & 2-3 bullpen arms while tring to matchup with the Reds for Castillo and or Gray.I think the Angels payroll is underestimated.If they match last yrs numbers, does Arte then go to increase salary further?He committed a ton after buying the team that we would be rt there in salary with the Yankees.I’ve never witnessed a salary structure comparable to the Yanks in 20 yrs since.It’s time to compete with both feet in and if that means a 250 million payroll,so be it.Trout needs a ring or 2 to even be considered the goat if he continues putting up the numbers everyone has to respect.Mr Moreno it’s time to rescue your fans and take advantage of have 2 of the very best players to ever play together a chance to play playoff baseball.
JoeBrady
I appreciate the site and all, but the article could’ve been 1/3 shorter if you dropped the teams that have virtually no shot. Cleveland jacking their payroll to replace Rosario, and then Gimenez? Or the Braves, with no opening at all?
There is always a chance anything can happen, but maybe just keep it to anyone with a better than 10% chance.
Jjfleury
Correa: I predict the Houston Astros will bring Correa back. Grienke is off the books and that is a nice spot to slot in a new contract. They have a hole to fill and he has the possible generational talent, but he is a huge risk to be at an overpay value. The Mariners are my dark horse candidate for Correa with Seager off the books, but Marte is kind of a hard person to knock off of short stop and this might be a push for Correa at 3rd.
Story: I predict a prove it deal at one year with the Minnesota Twins at a high salary. Story had a nightmare season. A one year deal in a ballpark that is favorable to right handed power hitters and the obvious hole at short stop is a pretty nice match. The Twins resigned Buxton. They are likely to be active in the pitching market, but they want to compete with Buxton’s peak having arrived. Story if he mashes like other right handed power hitters (Nelson Cruz, Brian Dozier, Josh Willingham, Josh Donaldson, Miguel Sano, etc…), he has a chance to re-establish himself at a much higher level in the next offseason. The twins also need a masher which can hit against lefties and Story is a nice match. The Yankees are also a good match, but I am not sure they want to take on another contract with the risk. They are buried in large contacts with low production. The rangers would be a fun dark horse having signed Seimien and Seager. Throwing Seimien at second, Seager at Short and Story at 3rd would be a lot of fun to see, but not likely.
Yanks2
Tigers offered Correa millions more than the Astros and he still declined it
AlienBob
@Jffleury
I don’t see Story going to the Twins. What have the Twins done to fill their many holes and question marks in their roster? The best pitchers are off the market and the Twins need a lot of pitching. Even Byron Buxton seems likely to leave at the end of 2022. After a 73 win season and with no progress to upgrade the roster in the first month of FA, why would he do a one year prove it deal? Story and every other free agent will be avoiding Minnesota when the lockout ends.
Yanks2
Didn’t the Twins just sign Buxton to a long-term deal?
GinaNCRaysFan
They did
StarvingPiratesFan
The Phillies are clearly not happy with Gregorios, and they have a need there, and for a CF’er. I could see Story getting 7 years from them. Dombrowski likes to make big splashes.
Yanks2
Dodgers because Seager just signed with the Rangers. Yankees aren’t getting Story. A reunion with Gregorius is a better idea. He’s great on defensive and provides a lefty bat in the lineup; won’t be as expensive as Story. Story also had inflated HR and RBI because of the thin air at Coors Field
GoGreen
Story is an elite 5-tool asset when healthy. I was really hoping for a Rangers homecoming, after meeting Story and his wife here in the Dallas area. But ultimately,
I think he signs with the Astros, and the dark horse runner up is the Nationals.
Rsox
The Astros on a short term deal. Story has historically hit well at Minute Maid Park (though dubiously against the Astros) and while that doesn’t always translate to success playing regularly in that park (Mike Lansing says “hello” from Coors Field) i think its the one park he could go to and his numbers wouldn’t skip a beat
CaAngels
Great discussion and no personal attacks! I love it! A lot of great opinions and thoughts. I think he gets offered big by Arte (best indicator of future performance is past behavior and practice). Whether he signs in Anaheim is another “Story”.
Please, Perry…talk to your boss! I’d love to see another starter and some bullpen help. Thrilled we re-signed Raisel but I hope they’re not done. Cautious optimism on Thor and think a healthy Sandoval will be huge.
Deckard
Bichette is a terrible shortstop. The Jays would be better served moving him to third and signing someone like Story.
bigfatandugly
lol wut?
by dWAR he was better defensively last year than biaz and seager. slightly behind story.
only correa was better by a huge margin defensively.
add in his offense he’s easily top 5 at the position. without his offense he’s still top 5. and he’s growing.
williemaysfield
Read all the comments and predictions.
I wouldn’t be worried about post Coors production. Good hitters are good hitters. DJ LeMahieu, Holiday, and Arenado all hit well after leaving Coors.
I think Astros. There not re-signing Correa so I think 6-140 would probably be the number to land story.
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